Saturday’s clash between the Reds and City was marred by the incident, which saw the Senegalese forward clatter into the Brazilian shot-stopper with his foot raised at head height.

Mane’s challenge forced Ederson to leave the field prematurely on a stretcher, subbed off shortly before half-time, and he required several stitches before he later returned to the stands at the end of the match sporting a huge bandage.

To think Tony Gale was on Sky this morning questioning Ederson's masculinity because he didn't wave to fans when he was being carried off pic.twitter.com/hushqtVyN2

And now a photo has appeared showing the immediate aftermath of Mane’s challenge, with Ederson covered in blood and sporting several stitches and bruises, with one massive gash along his cheek several inches long.

The challenge sparked a huge debate, with some pundits and former pros feeling that Mane had been harshly sent off even though the challenge was considered dangerous play.

Ederson had to be stretchered off after taking Mane’s boot in his face (Picture: Getty)

Mane was quick to apologise afterwards, though Liverpool believe he is being unfairly punished, with the forward set to be handed a three-game ban – the usual suspension for dangerous play.

But, according to The Times, Liverpool will appeal the length of the ban and will argue that the punishment is excessive.